brahmana

English - English

Definition of brahmana in English English dictionary: Any of several ancient Hindu religious prose texts that explain the relationship of the Vedas to the sacrificial ceremonies; A prose text that explains aspects of the Vedas; A brahmin; a member of the brahmana (sense 1); The brahmin varna in Hinduism. (Plural: brahmana.); {i} sacred Hindu prose works and writings dealing with Vedic rituals and sacrifices; Any of a number of discourses on the Vedas that explain their use in ritual sacrifices and the symbolism of the priests' actions. Dating to 900-600 BC, they constitute the oldest historical sources for Indian ritual. The Aitareya and Kausitaki Brahmana, compiled by followers of the Rig Veda, include discussions of daily sacrifices, the sacrificial fire, new-and full-moon rites, and the rites for installation of kings. The Pancavimsa, Sadvimsa, and Jaiminiya Brahmana discuss the "going of the cows," soma ceremonies, and atonements for mistakes in ritual. The Satapatha Brahmana introduces elements of domestic ritual, and the Gopatha Brahmana treats the priests' supervision of sacrifices; prose works attached to the Samhitas instructing the Brahmins to perform the very elaborate sacrificial rituals